One-third thinner than the existing tube and composed of 6 X-crossed layers, this multilayer carbon tube is a new technology which allows the tripod to have the same unparalleled performance of the well known Gitzo 1.5 mm tube while offering a 30% weight reduction.

Along with the Anti-Leg Rotation (ALR) system, this new range of carbon fiber tripods is another first from Gitzo. All mountaineer tripods in Series 1 and Series 2 are fitted with an anti-rotation grooved center column for increased stability. In addition, all carbon center columns are reinforced at the top for increased durability.

Unparalleled Strength
Gitzo carbon tubes use an exclusive process based on pull winding of long carbon fibers that are precisely wrapped and combined under high pressure and temperature with epoxy resin to a 1mm wall thickness. This manufacturing process ensures stiff, light tubes resistant to bending, have good tensile and compression strength, a high degree of stability in extreme temperatures, absorbs vibration and withstands fatigue better than other carbon fiber tube processes.

Cutting Edge
Carbon fiber Rapid center columns are now grooved to prevent rotation and increase stability. A stainless steel weight retractable hook is attached to the base of the center column, providing a convenient place to add extra stability in windy conditions.

Would you recommend the product? Yes |
Total Spent: $500.00| Rating: 10

Pros:

Very stable, very light. Works well with some big glass, adequate for 6' shooter

Cons:

Can be pricey.

The 1258 is a terrific tripod. I think it probably has to be Gitzo's most stable but light tripod. The ALR legs are terrific and a wonderful upgrade from Gitzos non ALR legs on the 1228. These new ALR legs allow you to set this thing up in about 15-20 seconds.

This tripod seems like it is built for the Really Right Stuff BH40 ballhead. A great match for these legs.

If you take this tripod, remove the center column and install either the gitzo short column or the markins tripod base, this tripod and with a good head like the BH40, this whole package comes in at almost exactly 4.0 lbs! That is an amazing weight for the performance and stability this tripod delivers.

I'm 6' and I've never used the center column, and never felt uncomfortable doing so. You really don't need it.

I'm really pleased with this tripod. Just last weekend, I had it set up with 5D/24-105 (IS off) combination, in 2' of ice cold trout stream water. I shot a 5 panel panorama which came out razor sharp and stitched perfectly on the first try. That is no mean feat and the ability of this tripod to damp out vibration from the running current (there was a wake off of each leg) is really excellent. The results of this pano are going to be printed 13x38" and it is going on the wall.

When you consider that vibration amplitudes of as small as 5um (5x10^-6) create about 1 pixel deep of blur, this tripod is really good at dealing with vibration and generating good stability.

I've also traveled with this on international trips, on sailing trips (as in I sail the boat), and it has done exceedingly well. Configured as mentioned above, this is a tripod that you can carry for hours, should not be shy about backpacking and can still count on it to be able to be a very stable camera platform when fully extended.

It is built solidly and like any gitzo, you can count on it to outlast you.